GLASS Mourns Passing of Chris Crowe

WASHINGTON, DC – The Gay, Lesbian & Allies Senate Staff Caucus (GLASS) joined with their colleagues on Capitol Hill in mourning the passing of the President of the LGBT Congressional Staff Association (CSA), Christopher Crowe. Crowe passed away on March 30, 2011 at the age of 29 from complications resulting from a staph infection. The members of GLASS are expressing their condolences to the entire LGBT CSA as it mourns the loss of their leader, and express their deepest sympathy to his family, friends and colleagues.

GLASS Co-Chair Jonathan Gilad stated, “I first met Chris at an LGBT CSA event last year, and in his “Classical Chris” way, warmly welcomed me with a smile. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Chris was a dedicated public servant and a truly great friend. I am shocked, deeply saddened, and he will be missed.”

Miguel A. Ayala, Co-Chair of GLASS, added, “I first met Chris in 2006, when I offered him an internship with the Office of Congresswoman Barbara Lee. As an intern, he quickly became an invaluable part of the team. It was then that I saw what so many people on Capitol Hill and throughout DC would come to know. Chris was a joy to be around who always put a smile on everyone’s face and made the best out of every moment. He was a close friend and I am shocked and saddened by this loss. My thoughts are with his family and his many friends. On behalf of our Senate community, Jonathan and I offer our support to our colleagues across the Capitol and all those who knew Chris as they go through this difficult time.””

As the new Co-Chairs of GLASS, Gilad and Ayala had set a meeting last week with Crowe to discuss ways for GLASS and the LGBT CSA to work together in the coming year. Sadly, that meeting did not occur as he had taken ill again.